Howard University Increases Security After Anonymous Threat Made Against Students

WASHINGTON — A violent threat has been made against Howard University students by an anonymous person claiming to be a University of Missouri student.

The threat posted to a web forum Wednesday night reads, “I left MU yesterday because I couldn’t put up with it anymore. I go home to MD and what do I see? The same old sh**. Turn on the news and it’s always the n****** causing trouble everywhere.”

“Any n****** left at Howard University after 10 tomorrow will be the first to go. And any of those cheapstake n****** who try to get out using the metro will regret that choice real fast. Sure, the po po will take me down, but I’ll go out a hero knowing I made the world better,” the threat goes on to state.

Howard University President Wayne A. I. Frederick sent the following statement to students:

“We are aware of the threat made against the University and its students and are working with campus, local, and federal law enforcement on this serious matter. This is an ongoing investigation. However, in an abundance of caution, the University has increased security on campus and at area metro stations. We strongly encourage the campus community and our neighbors to stay vigilant and to report any suspicious activity. If you see something, say something and contact Howard University Department of Public Safety at 202-806-1100 or the District of Columbia Metro Police Department at 202-727-9099.”

The university’s media relations director Anthony Owens says the FBI and D.C. Police are investigating and the school will not close.

“They have not warranted that level of attention,” Owens says.

Howard University Pres on threat. Same protocol for Friday. Campus open, but students can skip w/o penalty. @WNEWhttps://t.co/aEDH4oTwvT

Howard has not cancelled classes, but says students will not be penalized if they choose not to come to class on Thursday. WNEW’s Cameron Thompson spoke with students and says some support the decision to stay open, while others do not.

WNEW has reached out to Howard University about the threat.

Rally happening at Howard University tonight. Organizers say both in solidarity with Missouri & response to threats https://t.co/q8SuHyftYG